Surgery for Ankle Fracture is performed under local, spinal or general anesthesia. Skin over surgical incision is prepped with antiseptic solution. Surgical site is covered with sterile drapes.
X-ray is used to identify and mark the area of fracture. Skin incision is made over the broken ankle bones.
After skin incision, muscles are carefully separated from fracture site. The surgeon will align the broken bone in proper position either manually or by using special tools.
The fractured segments of bones are brought together in normal anatomical alignment and secured by using screws, wires or plates along the surface of bones. In most of the cases, the metal plate will stay inside the body for the rest of the life. Metal plates do not cause any harmful effects.
Once your fracture bone is secured, the surgeon will position the muscles in anatomical position. Subcutaneous tissue and skin are closed with absorbing sutures.
Antiseptic dressing is placed over skin incision. Limb with broken bone is secured with cast or splint.
Patient will be discharged home same day or after 2 to 3 days depending on type of fracture.